Meet the Team

Lucy Hunt is a marine biologist with a Joint Honours degree in Marine Biology and Zoology and a Master’s in Marine Environmental Protection. She has been delivering marine awareness and education workshops for all ages for over 15 years.

In 2014, Lucy founded Sea Synergy to raise awareness of the importance of the ocean and inspire people to connect with and protect it. Her work on ocean health and plastic pollution has received international recognition, including nominations as an Ashoka Changemaker, an Ocean Hero, and Kerry Businesswoman of the Year, as well as recognition by HRH Prince Charles. Lucy has led and developed international marine education projects, inspiring over 100,000 people to take positive action for the ocean, including through the Volvo Ocean Race Sustainability Education Programme (2017–18).

An avid scuba diver, Lucy loves anything on, in, or under the ocean. While she has climbed Kilimanjaro, Kinabalu, and Carrauntoohil, her greatest joy remains returning home to the Kingdom of Kerry, walking her local beach and sharing her coastal environment with others, fostering connection, curiosity, and care for the natural world.

Irish sailor Damian Foxall has competed in ten round-the-world races, achieving multiple world records and four round-the-world titles. Widely regarded as Ireland’s top international sailor, he has been recognised at a reception at the Presidential Residence for his achievements.

Damian’s experience in the marine sector spans elite competition, coaching, project management, and consultancy. His deep appreciation for the natural environment began growing up on Ireland’s southwest coast and later developed through a career working offshore in oceans around the world. He currently works as a marine consultant across multiple platforms and disciplines, highlighting the importance of ocean health, including his role as Sustainability Manager with Vestas 11th Hour Racing during the 2017–18 Volvo Ocean Race.

A regular public speaker across business, education, and media platforms, Damian presents in both English and French. His skills as an outdoor adventure guide and expedition leader are central to his work at Sea Synergy, where he combines lived ocean experience with a strong commitment to environmental stewardship.

Elis Martinelli brings a strong sense of curiosity and adventure to her role as Operations Manager. She holds a Master of Science in Biodiversity and Nature Conservation and has dedicated her work to understanding and protecting the natural world.

Her journey has taken her across continents — from a bicycle trip spanning 20 countries from Germany to Singapore to sailing across the Indian Ocean — alongside volunteering with a range of conservation organisations. Elis’s love for the ocean began early, snorkeling in the seagrass beds of the Mediterranean, and deepened through experiences such as witnessing the Great Barrier Reef and baby sea turtles hatching.

A strong believer in community-based conservation, Elis is driven by the idea that meaningful change starts with connection. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, birdwatching, freediving, cooking, and making music with friends. Her personal motto reflects her approach to life and work: “Find your thing!”

With more than a decade of experience across NGOs and business, Dalia Alnajjar brings a flexible, people-centred approach to her work. She has supported organisations through business development and organisational coordination, and has trained young adults in life skills and changemaking in complex settings.

Dalia holds a Master’s degree in Human Resource Management and a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, both with honours. From the warm beaches of Gaza to the Atlantic edge of Ireland, her perspective is shaped by lived experience, movement, and a deep connection to land, sea, and community.

Jane Sharp grew up exploring the shores of Kerry, where her curiosity for the sea took root and shaped her career. She became a scuba instructor and outdoor educator, bringing marine environments to life for learners of all ages by leading beachcombing adventures, hands-on activities, and marine awareness experiences.

At Sea Synergy, Jane plays a central role in its education programmes, sharing her passion for the ocean with local schools, community groups, and visitors. She is committed to fostering a deep connection between people and the marine world through exploration, discovery, and joyful learning